Meki Emeka Nzewi at 80: a commemorative interview

Abstract

Undertaking any presentation on the Nigerian musicologist Meki Nzewi, no matter how short, is a daunting task. Surely volumes are required to adequately present the life and works of Nzewi, yet so far there has been no major work dedicated to him. Kofi Agawu’s article (2008) in celebration of Nzewi’s 70th birthday briefly summarises his scholarly and creative output, conceptual definitions, arguments and viewpoints. In this tribute Nzewi’s background and musical activities are also discussed just briefly. This is followed by an interview¹ with the scholar on various aspects of his career that reflect some of his celebrated views on African musicology.